Hyderabad: Finding fault with telecom regulator TRAI's (Telecom Regulatory Authority of India) proposed tariff package for basic telephone services, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, a key outside supporter of NDA (National Democratic Alliance) government, ON January 28 said, "reforms and competition should benefit the consumers rather than burdening them".

While refusing to be drawn into the specifics of the new pricing norms proposed by TRAI, Naidu was critical of any move that might lead to burdening the consumer and argued that the essence of competition was that the cost of service should come down.

"We will go through the proposals and come back to you with our reaction", the TDP (Telugu Desam Party) supremo said at a press conference when asked whether his party would seek reconsideration of the regulator's decision to increase the rentals of basic telephone services, slashing the call duration and curtailing the number of free calls.

However, in general terms, Naidu disapproved of any move to hike the tariff at a time when competition and level playing field were expected to bring down the cost and benefit the users.

"Regulatory commission is an independent body but we can make an appeal," the Chief Minister said.

Favouring reforms, free competition and more private players, he said he had been "fighting" for pro-active reforms not only in telecom sector but also in several areas like labour laws and civil aviation areas.

PTI